Radon Maps for Scotland
Information on Radon Affected Areas and Radon Protection Measures
Public Health England (formerly the Health Protection Agency) and the British Geological Society jointly worked on detailed mapping of radon potential in Scotland. This is the primary resource for advice on radon in the UK and provides accurate maps identifying probable radon-affected areas.
The guidance contained within the Technical Handbooks refers to radon maps, which can be viewed on the UKRADON website and accessed via the 'Related Links' section of this page. The resulting high-definition digital map indicates areas in Scotland with elevated radon potential. Although prepared by testing dwellings at the more stringent action level of 200 Bq/m³, the map provides an indicative picture of regions where radon levels are likely to be higher and may be consulted in relation to non-domestic buildings.
Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive, colourless, and odourless gas that forms in areas where uranium and radium are present. It can move through cracks and fissures in the subsoil, entering buildings. Radon activity is measured in becquerels (Bq). Where this gas occurs beneath a dwelling, the external walls contain it, and its accumulation over time can pose health risks.
Long-term exposure to high levels of radon increases the risk of developing lung cancer. To mitigate this risk, all new buildings, extensions, and conversions in areas with potential radon concentration may need to incorporate protective measures.
Where Necessary, radon protective measures should be implemented in accordance with the guidance contained in BRE publication BR 211 (2023 edition) – Radon: Guidance on Protective Measures for New Buildings.
Additional guidance on the installation of radon protection measures in dwellings is available in two BRE Good Building Guides:
- GG 73 – Radon protection for new domestic extensions and conservatories with solid concrete ground floors
- GG 74 – Radon protection for dwellings
Guidance on reducing radon in workplaces can be found in the BRE publication FB 41 – Radon in the Workplace: A Guide for Building Owners and Managers.
Further guidance on installing radon protection measures in large buildings is available in BRE Good Building Guide GG 75 – Radon Protection for New Large Buildings.
All of these publications should be read in conjunction with BR 211.
